Prepared by the Parish Plan Steering Group: Anne Judge, Thanks to Awards for All, Community Champions, Karen Humphries of Joy Starkey, Roger French, Colin Barrett, Diane Birkin, Karen Deane, Community First, DEFRA, Dodderhill Parish Council and Frank Picken Peter Evans, Julie Foy, Jan Harrigan, Heather Howen, Stuart Miller, John Popes and Bob Twine.

To obtain more information about the Dodderhill Parish Survey Project or To volunteer to join/organise a club/organisation, please contact: on the archaeology and history of Dodder hill Parish, contact the Project Gill Pinfield, Clerk to Dodderhill Parish Council, The Old Granary, Co-ordinator Chris Bowers on 01905 776870. Elmbridge Lane, Elmbridge, Worcs. WR9 0NQ. Telephone: 01299 851301 The Dodderhill Parish Survey Project has published two booklets of Parish Email: [email protected] Notes, which are available at a very small cost Community Website: www.dodder hillandwychbold.org.uk

Contents Introduction

Welcome to this, the first Parish Plan for Dodderhill. We trust that this Page reflects all that is currently good about the Parish yet sets out how the community wants to develop over the next few years and identifies the Introduction 1 actions needed to help achieve this. • The Last 2000 Years 2 You will not be surprised to know that there is a general positive feeling about life in Dodderhill however there are also major concerns about • The Last 100 Years 3 development and traffic. This Plan will help make sure that all concerns are on everybody’s agenda for action and help us to preserve all that is Results of the Survey: good about the parish.

• A Vision for the Future 4 The production of this Parish Plan means that everyone has had the opportunity to comment on how they would like the parish to develop. The • The Environment 5 process for producing the plan was initiated by the formation of an embryo Steering Group based on 6 Parish Councillors, who went on to arrange • Development and Planning 7 two public meetings, advertised via flyers to each household. These meetings were used to determine the issues important to the residents, for • Transport and Road Safety 9 use as a basis for the parish survey, and to encourage additional people to join the Steering Group. • Safety and Policing 11 Happily we were able to swell the Steering Group to 13 people, the • Communications 12 majority of who were not Parish Councillors – in accordance with government guidelines. Grants were sought from Awards for All, • 13 Community Champions and DEFRA for the funding of activities and a total Leisure and Amenities of £4078 was spent, mostly on the printing. • Health and Education 15 Several months were spent designing the content of the household questionnaire, which was distributed in June 2006 to each of the 900+ Glossary 15 households in the parish, either by hand or by post. The return rate was 40%, either via the pre-paid addressed envelopes supplied or one of Action Plan 16 several drop-boxes placed in key locations. In addition, many local businesses and service providers were contacted (e.g. Doctor’s surgery) to gather opinions from a business perspective.

Following analysis of the household questionnaire returns, achieved using computer software designed for this purpose, additional Public Meetings

Dodderhill Parish Plan 2008 Page 1 of 21 were arranged to provide feedback and establish priorities for the Action The Romans saw Droitwich as an important strategic location. They built a Plan. very early temporary marching fort under what is now Roman Way to the east of Crutch Lane. They constructed a more permanent fort about AD 61 In the Plan we have set out to consider local problems and opportunities, on Dodderhill itself, where St Augustine’s church now stands, and up to which were highlighted in the survey and others, which have been three small Roman farmsteads existed along Crutch Lane. identified during the intervening period. Some statements in the Plan relate to issues that have moved on or been resolved during the period There is no evidence of what happened after the Roman period, except between the issue of the questionnaire and the production of the Plan. Its that salt making continued. By AD 692 a Saxon “royal residence” existed purpose is to set out a vision for the future development of our called Wicbald - “great hall at/near Wic”; Wic was Droitwich. Royal community and how that will be achieved. It: charters were signed there by the Kings of Mercia who travelled round • reflects the views of all sections of the community their kingdoms to collect revenues, dispense justice and feed their courts • identifies features and local characteristics that people value on the food stored at their estates. No doubt Wicbald was chosen due to • identifies local needs and opportunities the royal revenues from the salt industry. One of the greatest local • sets out a vision of how people want this community to develop in mysteries is the location of this Saxon residence. the future • includes an Action Plan for achievement of this vision St Augustine’s church on Dodderhill (not currently part of Dodderhill parish) was probably the site of an early Saxon Minster constructed in the The success of the Action Plan is dependent upon the commitment of all late 600’s from which priests went out to convert the local inhabitants. In parties and will require further support from Parishioners, as well as AD 680 the local people, known as the Hwicce, adopted Christianity and County Council, District Council, Dodderhill their territory became the diocese of Worcester. Parish Council, WCC Highways Partnership, West Mercia Police, Festival Housing Association and McDonalds. The networks of roads emanating from Droitwich were known as “Saltways” since salt was transported in all directions. The old Roman The Steering Group would like to thank everyone who contributed to the roads continued in use, including the main road through . A production of this document and for their willingness in completing the piece of land in Wychbold was recorded as “The Toll” in medieval times questionnaire, without which the Plan could not have been produced where those transporting salt or fuel for making salt had to pay a toll.

The Domesday Book in 1086 records the estate of Wicelbold, certainly a The Last 2000 Years continuation from the Saxon estate. Earl Godwin owned it, father of Earl Harold (killed at Hastings) and father-in-law of King Edward the Confessor.

The Domesday book also cites a Court that could indicate the Saxon royal Dodderhill’s history is one of a rural community that had a strong residence survived into the later 11 th century. The strong association connection with salt production from Roman times into the 20th century between Wychbold manor and the royally owned Droitwich salt industry and has been an important place for much of its history. shows the dominant position of Wychbold until the rise of Droitwich as a

town. The earliest evidence of human activity discovered is preserved in

Impney bog, north of the Hanbury Road, where there is rare evidence of The rest of Dodderhill parish would have been agricultural land with small early cultivation of cereals possibly going back into the Mesolithic period settlements- those of medieval date included Rashwood, Astwood, Obden (8000-4000 BC). (possibly Hobden), Sagebury, Pipers Hill and Cassies (possibly Cashes Farm). A striking feature is that the Domesday Book records five mills in

Dodderhill Parish Plan 2008 Page 2 of 21

the manor, the second largest concentration in the county in the 11 th The Last 100 years century. These would have been Saxon mills on the River used for grinding corn. Wychbold mill, Paper mill, Walk mill, Impney mill and th Dodderhill Parish is a rural area with the A38 in Wychbold at its centre. As the Droitwich town mill (a detached part of Dodderhill parish into the 19 described in the previous section, farms and manor houses have formed century) may be the sites of these five mills. A sixth mill was recorded at part of Wychbold for centuries. Local benefactors built many local Astwood in the 1100s but does not appear to have survived into the landmarks, including St. Mary de Wyche Church, Vicarage, Rashwood 1500’s School and the Corbett Homes for Retired Salt Workers. The principal

people were the 'Salt King' John Corbett, who developed the biggest salt The area of Crutch was administratively processing plant in Europe in neighbouring Stoke Prior, and the Amphlett outside the Parish and paid no tithes. It family, who built the original Wychbold Hall. was first recorded in the Domesday

Book as being owned by the same lord In the early 1900s, along the meandering unpaved Worcester Road (A38), who owned Wychbold, Osbern could be found Wychbold Court, Poplar FitzRichard. Cottages, Wychbold Garage, the

Congregational Chapel, the Post The Domesday manor of Wicelbold was Office, Robin Hood Public House, subdivided into smaller manors. Large Rashwood School, the County Police medieval timber-framed houses survive Station, the Village Stores, the Crown around Wychbold as witnesses to the Hotel with its outdoor heated swimming area’s farming prowess. These grew into pool, a Blacksmith’s shop and Webb's The Ancient Woodland major farming centres by the end of the Chateau Impney Trial Grounds. of Dodderhill Common Middle Ages. Prosperity continued th th during the 17 and 18 centuries as more major farmhouses were built - Crutch Farm, Kingsland Hill Farm, In the early 1930s Worcestershire County Council (WCC) straightened, the new Hobden Hall, Impney Farm, Withy Furlong Farm and Colley Pits widened and asphalted the A38 at about the same time the BBC built the Farm. radio masts to broadcast wireless signals, enabling “Droitwich calling” to

be heard across the land. During the 19th century large houses were built as part of the Victorian gentrification of the countryside including Elm Court and Impney The single event that had the most dramatic impact, both environmentally Mansions, now the Chateau Impney. This French chateau-style grand and sociologically, came in 1960-62 when the was built house with three lodges on the A38, set in its own park, was built by salt through and to the west of Wychbold proper. Local landmarks were magnate John Corbett using the vast profits from the industrialisation of demolished to make way for the junction and a massive motorway bridge; salt making at Stoke Prior. the south and west of the village was cut off from the east. Dodderhill now

had a transport infrastructure that enabled it (and its neighbours, e.g. Information provided by:- ) to be easily accessed from all over the country. Dodderhill Derek Hurst, Archaeologist, Worcestershire Historic Environment & became a more popular place to live because of ease of commuting; Archaeology Service commercial developments in areas nearby were also strategically placed Lyn Blewitt, Dodderhill Parish Survey Project Group to take advantage of the M5/A38.

Dodderhill Parish Plan 2008 Page 3 of 21 A new First School was built in central Wychbold, Rashwood School The Village Post Office survives, thanks to the Midlands News Store, having closed in 1971 after the building was declared unsafe. The which took over the post office duties and renamed the store “Wychbold original school was finally demolished in 1986 and replaced by a Little Post Office”. Chef restaurant and, subsequently, a Travelodge hotel to service the motorway trade. Wychbold is classed as a ‘sustainable village’ because of the level of services from which it benefits (e.g. school, public transport, post office, In the 1990s commercial development began on the area immediately shop) north of junction 5 and local opinion suggests that transport & environmental problems began to increase. McDonalds replaced the old Robin Skerratt, in his book “Memories of Wychbold before the Motorway”, ‘Sunnyside’ transport café and lorry park; the Holiday Inn Express hotel provides a fascinating record of recent local history covering much of the followed on the same site and Whitbread’s obtained planning permission, Parish and Wychbold in particular. on appeal, to build the ‘Wych Way Inn’ pub/restaurant. All these developments were strongly opposed by local people. Results of the Survey Webb's Garden Centre won awards and expanded into Britain’s biggest garden centre, new industrial estates were developed in neighbouring A Vision for the Future Bromsgrove and transport-related amenities were also developed to cater for the increasing volume of traffic from both the M5 and the A38. In summary, not unreasonably, residents would like Dodderhill to be a These developments have impacted on Wychbold’s village character by Parish that: bringing noise, litter and increased volumes of fast vehicles, especially lorries, into the area.. • Is Peaceful - traffic slowed; motorway noise reduced; lorries no longer speeding through country lanes. Housing development has steadily continued decade-by-decade: - post- • Is Safe - a strong police presence keeping vandalism, drugs and war Wychbold; 1960s and 1970s Stoke Prior (the Parish Boundary anti-social behaviour under control; pedestrians able to cross roads means that part of the west side of the village is in Dodderhill and not safely and walk on pedestrian-friendly pavements. Stoke); School Road; the Pear Tree Way estate, Wychbold; Impney Farm (again, an outlying part of the Parish, probably associating itself more • Is Litter free - clean; no litter strewn on pavements and in lanes with it's Droitwich neighbours); the development of the old Wychbold Hall estate by Bloor and the most recent infill development at Salwarpe Close • Is Green - two beautified Village Greens with flowering bulbs, trees by Festival Housing. The post-war concrete flats, also owned by Festival and benches; no parking on pavements; no further destruction of trees Housing, have become run-down and difficult to let, bringing various and hedges. social issues and consequently a fervent hope that they will be demolished and replaced with attractive affordable housing. • Preserves and enhances - the surrounding Green Belt and

environment. Recent housing developments, despite initial concerns from some quarters, have presented an opportunity to bring new blood and vibrancy • Retains what remains of a village atmosphere - new to the community. development restricted to those wanted by the community and in a

style and density that fits the existing character; the two open green

Dodderhill Parish Plan 2008 Page 4 of 21

field sites, restricted from development until 2011, returned to green developments by retaining what “village feel” they perceive they have left belt and not developed. in Wychbold proper.

• Offers activities for youth - a rebuilt Village Hall; Green belt volunteers/adults running a variety of community activities; working in Our questionnaire recorded that 98.5% wanted the green belt protected partnership with the Police and youth organisation. from development whilst 83% felt preservation of wildlife is “very important” to them; as were meadows and green fields (75%), ancient woodland (74%), trees (72%), canals (62%) and hedges (61%). The Environment Under recent legislation all hedges, other than those relating to domestic The landscape which determines the character of the British countryside boundaries, are now protected. Many trees carry Tree Preservation and the responsibility for its well-being, belongs to every one of us. Orders (TPO)and everyone should be vigilant in ensuring that any indication of tree or hedge removal is reported to WDC immediately. WDC Farming has declined over recent years and only a small number remain should carefully consider any planning application that calls for removal of as working farms. trees or hedges or is located in green belt.

Crops such as maize, rape and wheat are generally grown, as is grass Preserve and enhance the natural environment for hay and haylage. Beyond the built environment, Dodderhill residents show a strong feeling for the quality of the natural environment and hostility towards those who destroy it. They want it both preserved and better maintained.

Residents want WCC and WDC to do a better job of looking after certain

elements of the environment. 48% thought WCC and WDC did a “poor”

job between them of maintaining the verges, grass cutting (41%),

pavements (39%) and roads (37%). 73% thought the environment could

be improved through a reduction in traffic and speed - this encompassed

noise and atmospheric pollution as well as safety.

Make Dodderhill a nicer and safer place to walk and cycle

Particularly within central Wychbold, residents would like to walk and cycle Bluebells on Dodderhill Common but experience difficulties. They requested improvements for pedestrians

(66%) and cyclists (51%), wheelchair users (45%) and pushchair users

(30%). Since one of the issues is pavement parking, 62% want the Police We are fortunate to have a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) at to assist in its prevention (see Transport & Road Safety). Dodderhill Common/Pipers Hill, containing some of the oldest and largest 48% would like to see an improvement in the condition and maintenance trees in the County. More than 200 species of fungi have been found, the of pavements, and an increase in suitable pedestrian crossings (54%) and spreading crowns of the trees providing ideal growing conditions. dropped kerbs (42%).

Despite negative comments about development, residents recorded in the questionnaire how much they love Dodderhill. They want to preserve the surrounding green environment and improve the existing

Dodderhill Parish Plan 2008 Page 5 of 21 Improve Wychbold's two Village Greens Public Rights of Way (PROW) Residents would like to make the Greens into the village centre and see Outside Wychbold, on countryside public rights of way, walkers have improvements with massive plantings of flowering bulbs (37%), trees identified various problems that could potentially be resolved - overgrowth (51%) and the installation of benches (31%). and nettles (46%); lack of signposts and way-marking (32%); barbed wire (22%); poorly maintained stiles (20%) and crops across and obstructing paths (20%).

A resident has generously volunteered his time to become Dodderhill's Parish Path Warden, an unpaid position. He will survey and draw up plans to clear footpaths and bridleways, where authorised by WCC to do so, and assist the Parish Council in seeking funding from the WCC Parish Paths Partnership to pay for specific improvements. This will go in hand with the Parish Lengthsman, paid for by WCC, to keep signs clean and drains unblocked.

Litter and McDonald's 75% of respondents want an active effort against litter and rubbish and most of them felt that McDonald’s clients were the biggest culprits. McDonald's litter is discarded from cars and lorries for miles around; few Dodderhill lanes are unaffected.

The District Councillor and the Parish Council could potentially meet with McDonald's to communicate to them the strength of feeling of residents Availability of seating is important since children use the Village Greens and that the Parish wants them to be pro-active and regularly clean up as a play area. their litter, especially between the M5 roundabout and ‘The Crown’; provision of additional litter bins throughout the Parish, funded by Residents hope Festival Housing Association will support this request by McDonald’s, would be helpful. granting their permission and that funding can be obtained via sponsorship or a grant application. Additional environmental problems & potential solutions Dog waste: the Parish Council should install more dog waste bins if The Parish Council should ensure that both Greens are registered as suitable sites can be identified. Village Greens under the Commons Act 2006 since they have been used Green Waste: WDC collects green waste but this goes to landfill and not for lawful sports for at least 20 years. One Village Green is owned by recycling; WDC to be asked to explore the possibilities of recycling. Festival Housing Association, the other by Wychavon District Council. Fly tipping: Residents should report anyone fly-tipping to WDC via the WDC HUB “Report It” website or via the Civic Centre telephone number.

Dodderhill Parish Plan 2008 Page 6 of 21

Development and Planning Protect the Parish from further development. 69% do not want the two remaining green fields to be developed; currently Compared with other parts of the district, Dodderhill seems to have had both are “restrained from development until 2011”. The 22 acres bounded more than its fair share of development in the last 20 years, consequently by M5, Crown Lane and A38 was moved into potential development in 72% of respondents were strongly opposed to any further development 1991 and residents want this site to be protected and returned to green (housing or of any kind). Development in such close proximity to Junction belt. Residents do not want the 25 acres on Church Lane to be developed 5 of the M5 Motorway is perceived as encouraging a “commuter belt” either, one of the reasons being that it suffers from poor drainage. whereby people would make use of the road/motorway infrastructure to live in Dodderhill but commute to work in nearby cities (Birmingham, When asked what kind of non-housing development, if any, people would Worcester, Gloucester etc.). If building continues at its recent pace, like to see encouraged in Dodderhill, tourism development and job residents believe Dodderhill could coalesce into a suburb of Droitwich or creation received the most positive response (33-38% in favour). The Bromsgrove, connected by ribbon development. They believe they need other options received a much more negative response (having a ratio of a breathing space to come to terms with the pace of change that has approximately 2:1 against) with retail/shops 47%: 26% and small business taken place in their community and want to retain the “ rural feel ” and the development with 52%: 24.7%. By far the most emotive was more open green space they have left. restaurants/pubs/hotels or small-scale industrial workshops with a massive 65.5% against and only 10% in favour. Replace the flats in DeWyche Road The DeWyche Road flats sit prominently overlooking the Wychbold Residents appreciate that Webb's Garden Centre is a major local village greens and have a visual impact on all the other houses that employer and their expansion is beautifully done. However, they would surround the greens; Festival Housing owns both the flats and the larger have serious reservations about further expansion as they believe it would of the two greens. Residents want Festival Housing to demolish the flats, contribute to a further increase in coach, lorry and car traffic. which are perceived as an “ eyesore ”, and replace them with attractively designed bungalows and semi-detached housing for sale/rent to local The only developments to receive a positive reaction from residents are people. for residential care for people with disabilities (43%) and sheltered housing (41%). As tenants of the flats have limited off-street parking, vehicles are parked on the road, on the Village Green, on pavements and in front of No development in areas at risk of surface water and storm drainage driveways. For any future developments, and in line with the request to Flooding problems was a mandatory question included by the software WDC/PO, Festival is requested to include two off-street parking places in used to generate and analyse the questionnaire. Since the survey was plans for each house/flat. taken prior to July 2007, and the devastating damage caused by the heavy rain throughout Worcestershire (in which 5 properties along the Salwarpe Since the questionnaires were completed, plans are being developed for were badly flooded), the results might be different if the question was the 3 blocks of flats to be replaced by terraced housing and three-storey asked again. flats with off-street parking. The completion of the Salwarpe Close (previously Chez Nous) development has enabled Festival to move residents from one block of flats into this new development.

Dodderhill Parish Plan 2008 Page 7 of 21 80% of respondents said they either have no problems with flooding or A planning system that listens to local views had no opinion. 15% (50 households) reported that they had “few 54% of residents do not understand how the Planning System works whilst problems” whilst 3% (10 households) selected the “many problems” 40% believe they understand the process but are dissatisfied with the way option. it operates.

When asked where these Their dissatisfaction potentially stems from the developments they believe problems occurred, almost all were forced upon them, despite local objections. McDonald's, the Wych related to roads and junctions Way Inn and Salwarpe Close (formerly Chez Nous) are all developments along the valley floor of the River to which many residents objected but where they feel their opinions was Salwarpe. Hotspots included disregarded. A typical comment was that Dodderhill was suffering from “ Astwood Lane (Stoke Prior), ‘predatory developers’ who pushed in unwanted development, using Stoke Road/Shaw Lane, Church Wychbold as a dumping ground”. The adjacent Lane, Chequers Lane/East to Webb’s Garden Centre Close, Papermill Lane, Colley The Parish Council can help by providing an up-to-date and clear Pits Lane, Crown Lane, Brine description of how the planning system works. This is published on the Pits Lane, Walkmills Drive and Ford Lane. parish community website, including a link to the WDC/PO site. This may also help with managing the expectations of people, which may be far Houses along the A38, which sit below road level, also suffer in places. 6 higher than is allowed by planning law. The Parish Council and residents respondents reported that water floods or waterlogs their gardens and are only consultees in the process whilst decisions are primarily based on one resident reported that run-off water from the A38 had flooded their Government Planning Policy. house. Government Policy sets the timescales for consultation on Planning For the future, it seems unwise to develop in any location subject to Applications. However WDC might improve the situation by quickly waterlogging or where flooding occurs, even if it is not officially sending out letters notifying immediate neighbours about local planning designated as a flood plain. The 25-acre field in Church Lane falls into applications. While people going through the planning process would like this category. consultation timescales shortened, their neighbours however would like more time to find out about planning applications and express a view. Drains and culverts associated with roads should be kept clear by WCC/HP although the Parish employs the Parish Lengthsman to clear While residents appreciate WDC are the planning authority and have the any that are within his remit (within the Health & Safety rules). However, final say in planning matters, they would like the planning system to be WCC/HP could help the situation greatly if they would enact measures to more resident-friendly. deter traffic, especially large vehicles, from using the lanes as “ rat runs ”. These vehicles widen the roads by destroying verges and clogging ditches, both these being features that naturally assist in handling water run-off.

Residents who do experience domestic flooding should report it to WDC so that the extent of any problems can be measured.

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safety for school children and the elderly alighting from buses and create Transport and Road Safety an opportunity for traffic to safely join the main road from Crown Lane or Chequers Lane. There is no doubt we now live in the age of the motor vehicle. Dodderhill A refuge in the vicinity of Little Chef/Robin Hood Pub: Again, there are bus lies at the centre of a highway infrastructure and it has become stops on both sides of the road and it might also provide a buffer for increasingly unlikely that people both live and work in the same vehicles trying to join the A38 from Rashwood. immediate area since commuting is more feasible than ever before. People commuting between the motorway and/or principal places of Reduce motorway noise education or employment heavily use all our Parish roads, both main 72% of residents are affected by noise from the M5 motorway, both day roads and back lanes, especially during peak periods. and night, and want measures taken to reduce it. Some believe that the number of trees removed from the old Wychbold Hall site have made the Car ownership has also increased with one car per adult now noise worse. commonplace as opposed to one car per household. Over 89% of households recorded that the car was their major means of transport with The Highways Agency has promised Peter Luff MP in 2007 that there are an average of 1.5 private vehicles for every household. plans to deal with the noise within 5 years but this is considered an unacceptable timescale and residents, many of whom have been Improve safety on the A38 complaining for years, feel action should be taken now. Serious Dodderhill is bisected by the A38 and there is a high volume of traffic, of consideration should be given to obtaining an independent acoustic all kinds, in both directions, much of it perceived to be travelling at speed. survey, for which funding would be necessary. Safety concerns have been expressed about vehicular traffic issues (volume and/or speed, vehicles trying to access the A38) and pedestrians Constrain lorries from using unsuitable roads (lack of crossings). Residents reported that this traffic goes on 24 hours a 53% believe that lorries, often guided by satellite navigation systems, are day, one resident commenting “ shaking the windows of the house ”. contributing to traffic problems by using roads unsuitable for HGV's as “ rat runs ” in and around Wychbold. This includes Chequers Lane, Church 93% said they experience problems getting onto the A38. Residents want Lane and Astwood Lanes (both Wychbold & Stoke Prior) WCC/HP to improve road safety at the A38 junctions with Chequers Lane Discussions with Police and WCC/HP need to take place about potential (65%), Crown Lane (38%), Church Lane (38%) and Centurion Way solutions, which might include; (28%) and also the Chequers Lane junction with Stoke Road (54%). A one-way priority system on Chequers Lane and Church Lane: A weight limit on Astwood Lane, Stoke Prior and better signage on both 71% are concerned about the speed of traffic on the A38; currently 50 Astwood Lanes. and 40 mph. 67% want Highways to reduce the speed limit to 30 mph and to install radar-driven flashing speed signs in the hopes that slower Protect the children attending Wychbold First School traffic would make the A38 safer and easier to access. Inside Wychbold (away from the A38), a 30 mph speed limit exists but a 20 mph limit should be introduced on School Road between the Surgery The volume and speed of traffic can make it difficult and unsafe for and the First School to protect the schoolchildren. pedestrians to cross the A38. Two locations have been identified where aids could be installed by WCC/HP: A pelican crossing adjacent to 'The Crown' pub: This is the site of a staggered road junction with bus stops on both side of the road and 'The Poplars' sheltered housing complex on one corner. It would increase

Dodderhill Parish Plan 2008 Page 9 of 21 Improve safety on outlying roads and country lanes presence; WDC should ensure all future applications for development Speeding is perceived to be occurring on all roads and the existence of include two off-road parking spaces. the motorway junction results in a great deal of traffic traversing the Parish from outlying areas across our network of country lanes. These 44% want better maintained pavements, particularly for pushchair and lanes have no pavements and are becoming too dangerous to use other wheel chair users, since pavements are uneven and overgrown. than by motor vehicle. Vehicles passing each other, often at speed, are also damaging the verges and ditches, as the lanes get ‘wider’. Increase use of public transport/buses Whilst only 10% of the respondents currently rely on the bus for their main Outside Wychbold village the speed limit is generally the National Speed means of transport, 47% are receptive to using them especially as free Limit (60 mph on single carriageway roads). Residents would like to see bus passes are available to people over age 60. this reduced to 40 mph on Stoke Road /Shaw Lane, Astwood Lane and Crutch Lane.

Non-residents' vehicles being parked in the access road from the roundabout often restrict access to the Bloor estate. Once the roads are complete and have been adopted, residents are keen to have this road marked with double-yellow lines, and offenders ticketed, so that residents and emergency vehicles can safely negotiate into and out of the estate.

Improve safety on the M5 Junction 5 roundabouts. Residents believe the M5 junction is unsafe. WCC/HP in conjunction with the Highways Agency should review and potentially redesign the traffic management on the M5 slip-roads and roundabouts to:- Allow safe access into and out of the Bloor estate. Introduce measures on the M5 slip roads to eliminate the backlog (sometimes onto the motorway proper) of traffic waiting to turn right. However, if WCC wishes to increase bus usage in order to reduce traffic, Reclaim pavements for pedestrians residents would want them to make improvements to unsatisfactory Due to lack of off-street parking in certain areas, it is not surprising that timetables (50%) and reliability (46%). 30% of residents reported that vehicles, particularly around the Village Greens, are parking on the pavements; 20% said parked vehicles block An increase in the number of bus shelters was also desirable (40%), this their entrances. Residents want to reclaim the pavements for pedestrian being the responsibility of the Parish Council. safety and to encourage walking. One or more methods of parking control should be introduced and offenders should be ticketed. Suggestions are:- “No parking on pavement” signs; parking areas painted onto the road where the road is wide enough for both parking and free movement of traffic; trees planted at intervals along the roadside to deter parking where pavement/verge is wide enough. Most importantly residents want a more visible Police

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Safety and Policing Residents with problems could attend Parish Council meetings to voice their concerns. The Parish Council could also include the Beat Officer's Residents believe Wychbold's “ yob culture ” has intensified during the reports in the monthly Community Links and publish it on the website, so past 15 years. The increase in housing has potentially increased the that the wider Parish is kept informed number of young people within and around the Village who seem to have nothing to do. Older people expressed concern when the bored youths congregated around the village. The recent attempt by adults and young people to create a Youth Club for teenagers failed when intimidation caused the adults to withdraw their support.

Visible police presence with zero tolerance of vandalism, drugs, crime, litter and unacceptable behaviour Most residents were horrified at the damage caused to the Village Hall by local vandals, some describing it as “disgraceful” and turning it into what one resident described as “a bomb site”.

To stop this downward spiral, 73% of respondents want a visible Police Constable Brian Cheshire from the “Local presence with strict law enforcement “ to reclaim the community for the Policing Team” liaising with Parish Councillor majority of decent people with respect for others and property .” Residents Stuart Miller want zero tolerance of vandalism, drugs, crime, litter and unacceptable behaviour. . Street lighting Residents asked for consultations with Police (59%) and more activities School Road and Chapel Mews are areas with a degree of notoriety as a for young people (61%). However, there is a need for adults to volunteer 'hang out' or meeting place thus discouraging many residents from their time to run these activities for young people. passing through them at night. 34% of respondents would like yellow ‘dusk to dawn’ environmentally sensitive street lighting installed, this being the The Parish Council invited the West Mercia Police Wychavon Geographic responsibility of WCC. Another area where lighting is wanted to improve Commander, responsible for day-to-day policing in the Wychbold area, to safety is the School Road car park; this is the responsibility of Festival their August 2006 meeting. The Inspector was appalled by the extent of Housing Association. the damage to the Village Hall and gave assurances he would take a personal interest in the policing of Wychbold. Vandalism has dropped significantly since a new Beat Officer was appointed, assisted by a Community Liaison Officer. CCTV cameras have been fitted around the Village Hall and the Police presence around the village has improved significantly.

The Beat Officer has been asked to attend the Parish Council's monthly meetings (normally the second Monday of every month, 19:30) to inform the Council about his progress and any problems he encounters.

Dodderhill Parish Plan 2008 Page 11 of 21 Communications All areas of Dodderhill Parish to be represented on the Parish 66% of residents believe the amount of information they receive about Council Dodderhill Parish is “good/reasonable” while 25% thought it “poor”. In an ideal world, it may be most appropriate for the Parish Council to The response probably reflects where the resident lives. The Parish consist of councillors representing all areas of Dodderhill. DPC currently Council understands that the Community Link magazine no longer has 9 councillors representing various parts of central Wychbold and a reaches all residents; the Link is a church publication delivered to their total of 4 covering the whole of Astwood (east), Rashwood (south), Crown parishioners and Dodderhill is now larger than that area. Residents in Lane, Brine Pits Lane, Crutch Lane and Ford Lane (west). There are no Impney, Ford Lane, Crutch Lane and parts of Crown Lane do not receive councillors representing Stoke Prior or Impney. a monthly copy and therefore no direct communication from the Parish Council. Vacancies do occur from time to time and are published in the ‘Community Link’ magazine and are posted to the two notice boards. Anyone Improve communications interested in a vacancy should contact the Parish Clerk (details on the When asked how communications could be improved, a slightly higher inside cover). number of residents wanted an expanded Community Link magazine (55%) or a newly created parish magazine (54%) than wanted a Parish Council Promise: An Annual Report community website (42%). 14% would like additional notice boards over Through the questionnaire and this plan, residents are asking numerous and above the two currently outside the Wychbold Post Office and the local organisations (e.g. Wychavon District Council, Worcestershire Surgery. County Council, WCC Highways Partnership, Dodderhill Parish Council, West Mercia Police, McDonald's and Festival Housing Association) to help 63% of residents reported that they now have access to the Internet at solve the serious problems facing Dodderhill Parish. home. As this number is likely to grow and the design and hosting of the The Parish Plan Steering Group promises that all of these organisations Dodderhill Community website (www.dodderhillandwychbold.org.uk) has will receive a copy of this plan and will be made aware of the specific been donated, this is a low-cost option and the Parish Council should actions wanted by residents. The Parish Council promises to mail a written expand the information on the website. Volunteers are needed to provide update to all residents in one year’s time on any changes and progress topical information to the administrator who will then keep the site up to made/not made. date.

Post boxes sited in the most popular locations Residents would like reinstatement of the post box that was stolen from outside 'The Poplars' on Chequers Lane. They also want, as seems logical, a post box placed outside the new Wychbold Post Office, even if it means removing the one from outside the old Post Office location.

Dodderhill Parish Plan 2008 Page 12 of 21

Leisure and Amenities 46% of people recorded they had not visited the Wychbold Village Hall in the past 12 months; 39% had only visited it once or twice, most probably Dodderhill Parish is fortunate in that it owns a Village Hall and a large to vote or attend a Community Meeting. piece of open space, adjacent to the Village Hall, available for anyone to use. It contains several items of play equipment, football pitches, a netball court, acres of grass and trees and a brand new children’s play area built for the under-12s.

There are several thriving football teams, able to make use of the changing facilities at the Hall. The Hall is also used as a meeting place by various organisations such as the Parish Council, WI etc. but what seems to be lacking is any kind of indoor activity for young people or regular social events for the whole community.

In 2005-06 the Parish Council, along with volunteers from the Parish, Football Field, Adjacent to obtained a £1000 grant to buy new sports equipment and tried to restart Wychbold Village Hall a Youth Club. This effort failed when local youth intimidated volunteers until they believed it was not safe for them to continue.

The Village Hall “We go elsewhere for social events” was the box ticked by 48% and “none The original brick-built Hall was built in the 1960s to replace the previous of the current activities interest us ” was ticked by 45%. However, in the wooden structure in Crown Lane. The funding came from local fund- written section of the questionnaire, residents explained that they did not raising and grant-aid. Sadly, the Hall needs major investment to bring it use the Village Hall because they did not believe it was “safe.” up to current-day standards. Following a further spate of incidents caused by local vandals, the Village Residents appear to be in favour of restoring the Hall if it could be made Hall sat with many of its windows boarded up and graffiti on its walls. It into a safe, attractive centre holding the right activities. was also burgled and all the curtains ruined. These were replaced at great expense, and the interior of the Hall decorated, simply so that the 49-56% said they would attend community meetings and social events. Hall could continue to be used and generate some income to cover its running costs.

The alternative was to close the Hall completely but there would also have been financial implications in doing so. The Parish Council voted to take on the management of the Hall, on a temporary basis, and seek funding to extend and upgrade the facilities in order to create a proper Community Centre that people would want to use.

An application has been made for lottery funding to cover the cost of this.

Dodderhill Parish Plan 2008 Page 13 of 21 Section 106 Agreements - Funding • Sports clubs Whenever a housing development goes ahead, the developer has to • social events make contributions to a community fund (referred to as ‘106 funding’) • community meetings based on the size of the development. This fund is administered by WDC • and the community website. and can only be used to enhance public open space. The Pear Tree Way and Bloor Estates were no exception. Large numbers of adults are particularly needed to organise and run youth activities for children. The Parish Council used £22,000 of these funds for a new children's playground and a further £15,000 to install a CCTV camera system A partnership between adults/parents and the Police could be formed to around the Village Hall and playground to protect the whole area from ensure that efforts are not thwarted by the anti-social behaviour of a crime-related activities such as vandalism. minority element. Nothing will change unless, and until, residents get involved. Further ‘106 Funding’ will be available and possible uses will be further development of the area around the Village Hall, regeneration of Parish Both the District and County Councils have teams whose function is to allotments and the enhancement of the Greens. facilitate activities for young people. Their help and expertise will also be utilised if and when volunteers come forward. Volunteers needed The questionnaire recorded that 45% of people felt there were no social Communities with a vibrant spirit are those that offer a wide range of facilities available in Dodderhill for those under the age of 60 whilst 61% activities for the whole family. They are nice places to live and raise want activities for young people, an active Youth Club and Sports Clubs children; they make you feel as if you belong. A community is only as good so youngsters have somewhere to meet and play after school hours. as the residents who are involved.

There was interest in the provision of holiday play schemes (44%), after Please volunteer and get involved. school clubs (39%) and adult education evening classes (58%).

All these activities need a building in which to hold them and adults to volunteer to run them. Whilst the Parish Council is working to upgrade the Hall and keep it open, activities cannot take place without the help and support of Dodderhill residents.

The Parish desperately needs a new generation of volunteers, both men and women, to come forward and get involved in the organisation of much needed clubs and facilities :

• Parish Council • Village Hall Committee • Scouts and Guides • Playgroups • Youth clubs

Dodderhill Parish Plan 2008 Page 14 of 21

Health and Education Glossary & Contacts

Dodderhill http://www.dodderhillandwychbold.org.uk/ It appears that Dodderhill’s Community residents are relatively healthy in Website as much as, with the exception DPC Dodderhill Parish Council of the use of GP services, 75% of people had not used any of NSL National Speed Limit the medical/social services listed Police West Mercia Police Ann Taylor and Vicky Everton in in the survey during the last PPW Parish Paths Warden the pharmacy at the Wychbold year. [email protected] Surgery PROW Public Right of Way

TPO Tree Preservation Order The General Practice Surgery itself was rated “good” by 69% and “reasonable” by 12% and considering 15% had not had cause to visit a WCC Worcestershire County Council Doctor in the last year, this should be considered an excellent rating. Tel: 01905 763763

Dodderhill Parish has no secondary schools or colleges. Wychbold First WCC HUB The internet mechanism used by WCC for central School, which experienced some difficulties a few years ago, has been management of information and recording of turned around and is now thriving and exceeding Education Authority issues. standards - a recent OFSTED examination placed it at ‘borderline http://www.worcestershire.gov.uk/ outstanding’. WCC/HP Worcestershire County Council Highways It has a broad, balanced and Partnership stimulating curriculum to meet WDC Wychavon District Council individual’s needs; offers free musical instrument tuition at Key Tel: 01386 565000 Stage 2; includes a funded WDC HUB The internet mechanism used by WDC for central Nursery as part of its Foundation management of information and recording of Stage Unit; has achieved ‘Healthy issues. School’ status and has outdoor play provision, a Forest School http://www.wychavon.whub.org.uk/ Wychbold First School IT room . and a PC Network. Tel: 01386 565015

WDC/PO Wychavon District Council Planning Office This Plan can do no more but report on the excellent job that is being done by everyone involved.

Dodderhill Parish Plan 2008 Page 15 of 21 Action Plan

The conclusion to the Parish Plan requires an Action Plan to summarise the issues that will need to be taken forward for more detailed investigation and consideration. The success of the Parish Plan will be wholly dependent on the motivation and support of Dodderhill Parishioners as further volunteers will be needed to form Working Groups to tackle the issues head-on and progress the Action Plans. Please help, if you can, to make the Parish Plan a reality and something we can all be proud of.

Action Plan Priorities were determined at the public meetings and continuous feedback on the Action Plan will be provided to the local community via the Community Links, Annual Report and Dodderhill Community website ( www.dodderhillandwychbold.org.uk ).

Starting from the time the Parish Plan is published the timescales on Priorities are: HIGH = within 12 months, MEDIUM = within 2 years, LOW = within 3 years

The Environment

Goal How it will be tackled By Whom Priority Status Preserve & enhance the Ensure that Planning Policy and Local Plan adoption protects Parish Council with WDC/PO MEDIUM Continuous environment the Greenbelt from all development Preserve & enhance the Ensure that Planning Policy and Local Plan adoption protects Parish Council with WDC/PO MEDIUM Continuous environment trees, woodlands, green fields and wildlife from all development. Prevent trees and hedges Support local planning policy that aims to protect trees and Local residents, Parish MEDIUM Continuous from being removed hedges. Council and WDC/PO - HIGH unnecessarily Seek volunteers from within the Parish to act as Tree Wardens. Request a list of all TPOs from WDC and monitor their wellbeing via the Tree Warden. Carry out a survey to ensure that all ancient and/or important trees are considered for TPOs. Carry out a survey of ancient hedgerows to assess their age and biodiversity. Improve maintenance of Liaise with WDC to improve grass cutting and maintenance of Parish Council with WDC HIGH verges and grassed areas verges – frequency & removal of cuttings. Improve Maintenance - road Lobby for improvement in the unblocking of drains on which Parish Council with WCC/HP MEDIUM cleaning & drain clearance the Parish Lengthsman is not allowed to work since flooding is detrimental to verge upkeep.

Dodderhill Parish Plan 2008 Page 16 of 21

Goal How it will be tackled By Whom Priority Status Improve Public Rights of Way Obtain funding from Parish Paths Partnership to resolve WCC Countryside Service in LOW specific problems with footpaths and bridleways identified via conjunction with PPW the Parish Paths Warden. Ensure legal protection of Investigate the possibility of registering the two Village Greens Parish Council HIGH Public Open Space under the Commons Act 2006. Improve the Village Greens Obtain permission from land-owners; Parish Council in conjunction MEDIUM Obtain funding; with WDC & Festival Housing Arrange for planting of flowering bulbs and trees and installation of benches. Encourage walking rather than Lobby WCC/HP to :- Parish Council with WCC/HP MEDIUM using a car (for short journeys) repair uneven and overgrown pavements. Install dropped kerbs and pedestrian crossings for pedestrians, push chair and wheel chair users. Improve pavement maintenance. Keep environment clean with Liaise with McDonald’s for regular litter picks between M5 Parish Council and WDC in HIGH improved litter management roundabout High and Crown Pub; encourage local businesses conjunction with McDonald's to donate litter bins to be installed throughout Dodderhill Keep environment clean with Install additional dog waste bins Parish Council and WDC MEDIUM improved dog-waste management. General environmental Continue to employ the Parish Lengthsman to clean signs, Parish Council HIGH Continuous improvements. unblock drains, clear overgrown footpaths/verges and carry out general improvements. Increase recycling of green Encourage WDC to recycle green waste - collection could be Parish Council with WDC HIGH waste. diverted from landfill to recycling. Clean up the Parish Publicise how to report fly tipping to WDC “Report a Problem” Parish Council, WDC & HIGH website ( www.wychavon.gov.uk ), Residents Tel: 01386 565015

Dodderhill Parish Plan 2008 Page 17 of 21 Development and Planning

Goal How it will be tackled By Whom Priority Status Protect open space Engage with WDC Planning Department to discuss planning Parish Council/WDC/PO MEDIUM designations and possible developments. Lobby to prevent development of open green field on Church Lane and have it reclassified as Greenbelt. Lobby to prevent development of open green field along A38/Crown Lane and have it reclassified as Greenbelt. Make the Planning process Encourage WDC to notify all neighbours with timely letters WDC/PO LOW more resident-friendly. about local planning applications. Manage Expectations Publish details of how the process works on the Dodderhill Parish Council in conjunction HIGH Complete (Planning) Community website. with WebMaster Increase availability of off-road Encourage WDC/PO to critically review all applications for WDC/PO MEDIUM parking housing development, to include at least two off-road parking places for each house/flat. Provide for the needs of Support WDC/PO in allowing development of local residential WDC/PO, Festival Housing LOW residents who are older or have care/ sheltered housing. Association a disability Limit ‘ribbon development’ and Resist further large scale housing developments, private or WDC/PO HIGH preserve the character of the affordable, except for housing infill. area. Preserve the integrity and Draw up a “Design Statement” that describes components of WDC/PO HIGH character of the Parish. an acceptable street landscape (e.g. buildings not more than 2 stories in height). Ensure density and character of infill development is in keeping with the density and character of the Parish including the density assignment of ‘Rural’ as opposed to ‘Town’. Resist development of additional fast-food restaurants, chain pubs, hotels, industrial workshops and any further expansion of Webb's Garden Centre. Create an ‘identity’ for Consider marking the A38 boundaries with :- Parish Council in conjunction MED Wychbold so that people Flowers in tubs. with WCC/HP (restrictions traversing the A38 feel that they exist for work on the A38). Half-gates on verges either side of the road. actually are ‘somewhere’

Dodderhill Parish Plan 2008 Page 18 of 21

Transport and Road Safety

Goal How it will be tackled By Whom Priority Status Improve A38 road safety Campaign to reduce A38 speed limit to 30 mph through the Parish Council in conjunction HIGH village and install radar-driven flashing speed signs. with WCC/HP Assist in safe crossing of the Encourage installation of a pelican crossing or traffic lights Parish Council in conjunction HIGH A38 adjacent to ‘The Crown’ outside the Crown Pub on A38 to protect the people, with WCC/HP especially schoolchildren & the elderly, as they alight from buses. Assist in safe crossing of the Negotiate for installation of a refuge in the vicinity of Robin Parish Council in conjunction MEDIUM A38 adjacent to Rashwood Hood Pub/Little Chef. with WCC/HP Reduce motorway noise Lobby for Installation of fencing and/or resurfacing of M5 as it Parish Council in conjunction HIGH passes through Dodderhill. with MP and Highways Agency Reduce motorway noise Consider an independent acoustic survey, obtain funding for Parish Council in conjunction HIGH same. with MP and Highways Agency Improve road safety on M5 Encourage introduction of measures on the M5 slip-roads to Highways Agency & WCC/HP MEDIUM Junction 5 roundabouts. eliminate the peak-time back-log (sometimes onto the motorway proper) of traffic waiting to turn right. Lobby for provision of safe ingress and egress for Bloor estate. Deter lorries from using Negotiate for installation of a one-way priority system on both WCC/HP MEDIUM unsuitable roads. Chequers Lane and Church Lane to deter heavy/large vehicles using the lanes as “rat runs” though Wychbold. Deter lorries from using Lobby for a weight limit on Astwood Lane, Stoke Prior. WCC/HP MEDIUM unsuitable roads. Deter lorries from using Encourage better signage on all roads unsuitable for large WCC/HP HIGH unsuitable roads. vehicles Deter lorries from using Encourage removal of the signpost on the A38 that identifies WCC/HP HIGH unsuitable roads. Chequers Lane as a route to Hanbury. Improve road safety on lanes Lobby for a reduction in the speed limit from NSL to 40 mph WCC/HP MEDIUM outside Wychbold on Shaw Lane, Astwood Lane(s), Stoke Road and Crutch Lane. Prevent vehicles parking at the Negotiate for provision of double yellow lines. WCC/HP HIGH entrance to Bloor estate

Dodderhill Parish Plan 2008 Page 19 of 21 Goal How it will be tackled By Whom Priority Status Improve road safety adjacent to Lobby for a reduction in the speed limit to 20 mph on School WCC/HP HIGH Wychbold First School Lane between Surgery and First School. Negotiate for “Slow down, Children” signs. Deter parking on pavements Encourage installation of “No Parking on Pavement” signs WCC/HP MEDIUM and/or paint parking bays and/or plant trees around the Village Greens so that parking on pavements becomes difficult. Encourage use of Public Negotiate for better and readable timetables at bus stops and WCC MEDIUM Transport more reliable bus service. Encourage use of Public Provide additional bus shelters; maintain existing bus shelters. Parish Council LOW Transport Discourage illegal parking & Encourage West Mercia Police to ticket illegally parked West Mercia Police HIGH Improve road safety vehicles especially on pavements in Wychbold; in the bus stop lay-by on A38; at entrance to Bloor Estate (if lines are installed). Raise awareness that Set up a dialogue with neighbouring Parish of Stoke so that Parish Council HIGH development in Bromsgrove DPC and WDC are aware of developments in Bromsgrove has an impact on traffic that might impact on traffic through Dodderhill.

Safety and Policing

Goal How it will be tackled By Whom Priority Status Improve public safety & reduce Encourage West Mercia Police to adopt :- West Mercia Police HIGH fear of crime. a strategy of Visible Police Presence. zero tolerance policy towards vandalism, drug use, crime, litter and unacceptable behaviour. Raise visibility of policing Request Police Beat Officer to provide verbal report at West Mercia Police and Parish HIGH monthly Parish Council Meeting, PC to include report in Council Community Links magazine. Improve public safety & deter Lobby for installation of dawn to dusk yellow environmentally WCC MEDIUM loitering sensitive street lighting on School Road and Chapel Mews Improve public safety & reduce Lobby for installation of street lighting in School Road car park Festival Housing Association MEDIUM fear of crime.

Dodderhill Parish Plan 2008 Page 20 of 21

Communications

Goal How it will be tackled By Whom Priority Status Improve communication with Expand the Dodderhill Community website. Encourage Dodderhill Residents HIGH Residents volunteers to provide the information. Improve communication with Write and post an Annual Report to all households. Parish Council HIGH Residents Re-instate Post box Lobby for reinstatement of the post box outside Poplars on Parish Council in conjunction HIGH Chequers Lane. with Royal Mail Install Post box Encourage Royal Mail to install a post box outside new Post Parish Council in conjunction HIGH Office. with Royal Mail

Leisure and Amenities

Goal How it will be tackled By Whom Priority Status Obtain funding for an improved Obtain lottery funding to restore/modernise Village Hall. Parish Council HIGH Community Centre Build an improved Community Restore the Village Hall to be a safe/attractive community Parish Council MEDIUM Centre centre in which to hold youth activities and community meetings. Create a better Community Encourage Residents to volunteer to join the Parish Council Parish Council HIGH spirit and Village Hall Committee. Provide activities for children Seek adults to volunteer to run/organise youth activities Dodderhill Residents HIGH and teenagers Seek assistance from Youth Contact organisations who can assist in the setting up and WCC in conjunction with HIGH Organisations running of activities for young people. Parish Council Re-instate the Parish Investigate funding for land clearance and fencing so that the Parish Council MEDIUM Ongoing Allotments old, overgrown allotments can be re-instated.

Dodderhill Parish Plan 2008 Page 21 of 21